Kaesler Old Bastard Shiraz 2018

I don’t know if it is the name, or the label, but the Old Bastard Shiraz certainly has a reputation as being one of those BIG Barossans. But I sense a change in 2018, and a move to more understated wines, yet still with that Kaesler generosity of fruit. Bold but sleek at the same time, it still comes from the same spot – vines that celebrated their 125th birthday in 2018, which are located just behind the winery outside of Nuriootpa.

It is deep ruby in colour but not black as night and opens up with quite savoury aromatics – meaty, tarry, liquorice scented fruits freshened by dark cherry. There is a good dose of very classy oak in the mix too which sits comfortably with that fruit. The palate then shows layers of dense, darker fruits supported by moderate tannins to provide a long and balanced finish. There is an inner-strength to this wine, which is probably a little young right now, that provides plenty of ageing potential for those that can keep their hands off it.